Challenges of Diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease

By Annette Bratcher, 8:00 am on September 18, 2014

With no test available to definitively diagnose Parkinson’s in patients exhibiting common symptoms, the disease can pose considerable concern for families of aging loved ones. And because Parkinson’s symptoms mimic those of other advanced conditions, it can be extremely difficult for professionals to diagnosis Parkinson’s conclusively.

If you are concerned that your aging parent or loved one has Parkinson’s, Denton County Home Care Assistance is going to share the general steps of the diagnostic process. This will help you understand what to expect and can better allow you to prepare emotionally.

When your loved one’s doctor suspects that he or she is showing signs of Parkinson’s, they will likely refer your loved one to a specialist in the field to further investigate identified symptoms. Specialists often scale their diagnosis down to three major symptoms, often confirming Parkinson’s when the patient has two of the following symptoms:

Severe tremors, especially when at rest

Slow movements or bradykinesia

Muscle stiffness

The specialist will also run diagnostic tests to help rule out other diseases and conditions. If Parkinson’s is confirmed, the doctor will provide recommendations on how to best move forward with care, both presently and in the long-term.

Families caring for seniors with Parkinson’s will need to become familiar with the disease, its stages and what to expect in each stage. Doing so can help prepare for future needs, while ensuring the safety and comfort of the senior as the disease progresses. For instance, your loved one’s care needs may only require minimal help with daily activities such as cooking or transportation in the early stages. However, over time, symptoms of the disease will make basic activities difficult, and sometimes painful or dangerous to complete. Here, you will likely need to provide around the clock care or enlist in the help of Denton County 24/7 caregivers who can help manage symptoms and maximize safety.

For more information about care for a senior loved one with Parkinson’s, contact Home Care Assistance of Denton County. We offer flexible Denton County hourly home care, giving our clients the freedom to choose the level of care that best meets their individual needs. To schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation, call 972-468-6010 today.